Benefits of Transverse Abdominal Exercises

Many abdominal exercises will inherently activate and strengthen the
transverse abdominals but at a lessor extent.

To really strengthen this muscle, you want to do workouts that will
target it specifically.

While there are not a wide variety of exercises
like with crunches, it does not take a wide range of movement to
activate the transverse abdominis.

In fact, slight movements, such as sucking in your stomach as if you
were trying to touch your belly button to your spine. This simple
movement will contract and strengthen this abdominal muscle.

The
fibers of this muscle run horizontally around the abdomen and works as
a girdle or belt. Hence the nickname for the transversus abdominis of
the "corset muscle".

The primary function of this muscle is to
compress the ribs and viscera, stabilizing the pelvis and spine. The
TrA will help prevent a protruding belly. Basically, it helps hold the
stomach in.

While achieving achieving a flatter belly is one
of the benefits of strengthening the muscle, preventing lower back
injury is a greater benefit.

Since this muscle acts as a girdle,
or your weight lifting belt if you will, keeping this strong will help
you when lifting heavy objects.

It has been estimated that the
contraction of the TVA and other muscles reduces the vertical pressure
on the intervertebral discs by as much as 40%. If this muscle is not
engaged while lifting, you are more prone to spinal injuries.

Working all the core muscles will help minimize back pain and injury.

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